Ecological Restoration Officer – Kawakawa Environmental – Wellington region

Location: Wellington Region & Remote Field Sites Across Aotearoa
Salary: Starting at the NZ Living Wage or above, depending on experience
Type: Full-time (Fixed-term and ongoing opportunities available)
Start date: Immediate start available

A position is available now — applications will be assessed as they are received, so don’t delay!

Join a passionate, hands-on team working across some of Aotearoa’s most ecologically important and scenic landscapes.

What We Do

We provide a wide range of ecological restoration services, with a strong focus across the greater Wellington region and beyond. Our work includes:

• Ecological monitoring – tracking predator presence, assessing ungulate impacts, and surveying vegetation health
• Pest plant and pest animal control – across bush reserves, wetlands, coastal sites and rural areas
• Restoration planting – project planning, planting and maintenance
• Ecological assessments and advisory services – for councils, community groups, landowners and restoration partners

Our team is focused on practical, outcome-driven conservation to support long-term ecological recovery.

About the Role

You’ll be part of a field-based team delivering hands-on restoration and conservation work across a wide range of ecosystems. Your work will include:

• Biodiversity monitoring in remote backcountry sites across Aotearoa
• Invasive species control – pest plants and animals
• Restoration planting in key sites across the Wellington region
• Vegetation surveys, data collection, and reporting

The work is highly varied — both in methods and location. One week might involve tracking ungulate impacts in the backcountry, the next surveying native forest regeneration or planting a coastal dune system. You’ll work across forest remnants, wetlands, riversides and urban green spaces. This variety keeps the role interesting, meaningful and deeply rewarding for anyone who thrives outdoors and is passionate about ecological restoration.

Please note: Some workweeks will be based away from home, and occasional backcountry field stints of 5–10 days will be required. All accommodation and travel costs are covered during these projects.

We’re Looking For Someone Who:

• Has a background or strong interest in ecology, conservation, or environmental management
• Is physically fit, self-sufficient, and comfortable in remote and rugged conditions
• Has practical experience with restoration planting, pest control, or field monitoring
• Communicates clearly and works well as part of a field team
• Holds a full NZ driver’s licence.

What We Offer

• A guaranteed starting rate of at least the New Zealand Living Wage
• Immediate start in a role that contributes directly to the protection of Aotearoa’s biodiversity
• Diverse and rewarding work across remote and urban natural areas
• Training and development in ecological fieldwork, monitoring, and restoration techniques
• A positive and supportive team environment committed to high-quality conservation outcomes.

Apply Now

If you’re ready to get stuck in and make a real impact in the field of ecological restoration, we’d love to hear from you.

Please send your CV and a brief cover letter to Info@kawakawaenviro.co.nz.

Applications will be assessed as they’re received, and the position may be filled early — so get in touch soon!